dacryocystorhinostomiás

Dacryocystorhinostomy, often abbreviated as DCR, is a surgical procedure performed to restore normal tear drainage when the lacrimal sac or nasolacrimal duct is blocked. This blockage prevents tears from flowing from the eye into the nose, leading to symptoms such as excessive tearing (epiphora), recurrent eye infections, and pain. DCR surgery creates a new pathway for tears to bypass the obstruction and drain directly into the nasal cavity.

There are two primary approaches to performing a DCR: external and endoscopic. The external approach involves a small incision on the side of the nose, through which the surgeon accesses the lacrimal sac and creates a connection to the nasal cavity. This method is generally considered to have a higher success rate but results in a visible scar. The endoscopic approach is performed entirely through the nostrils using a small camera and specialized instruments, leaving no external scar. While less invasive, it may have a slightly lower success rate in certain complex cases.

The decision to perform DCR surgery is typically made after a thorough examination by an ophthalmologist or otolaryngologist, often involving imaging studies to pinpoint the location and extent of the blockage. The procedure is usually performed under local or general anesthesia. Post-operative care typically involves nasal packing and a course of antibiotics to prevent infection. Most patients experience significant relief from their symptoms after a successful DCR surgery. Complications, though rare, can include bleeding, infection, or recurrence of the blockage.